Apple’s two-factor authentication feature has been around since the launch of iOS 9 in 2015 as an upgrade to the tech giant’s two-step verification process introduced in 2013. It was designed to ensure no one but you has access to your account, even if your password gets compromised.
Two-factor authentication improves the security of your iPhone if you’re already using it with your Apple ID. However, if you updated your 2FA by accident, then you can still turn it off, albeit within two weeks of enrollment. Read this handy article to learn more.
Part 1: What Is Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on iPhone?
Two-factor authentication is Apple’s default security method on almost all Apple IDs. When you sign in for the first time on your new device with your Apple ID, you need your password and six-digit verification code to access it.
With the addition of 2FA, signing in will also request two-factor authentication as an extra layer of security for your Apple ID if it’s turned on in your password & security settings.
Here are the pros and cons of turning on two-factor authentication in a handy table below.
Pros
The added layer of security protects you from hackers if your password gets compromised by a data breach.
Adding a physical authentication tool gives users a feeling of increased security when browsing online.
Widespread adoption makes you more confident in activating 2FA on most devices.
Cons
After a two-week window, two-factor authentication will become permanent on your Apple ID, and you will not be able to remove it.
Sign-in, two-step, and two-factor authentication take too much time when logging in to another device.
Two-factor authentication is still not foolproof and devious cybercriminals can still use a sophisticated method to steal your data.
Part 2: How To Turn Off Two-Factor Authentication on iPhone?
Turning off Apple’s two-factor authentication is impossible if you’re already past the two-week window. If you’re within the two-week timeframe, then here are two methods to turn 2FA off.
To remove two-factor authentication on your iPhone, go to Settings > your name > Password & Security. Tap Two-Factor Authentication and turn it Off again.
Meanwhile, if you want your Apple ID to disable Two-Factor without an iOS device, here are the steps to turning off two-factor authentication on the web.
Step 1. Go to the Apple ID sign-in page and log in with your Apple ID.
Step 2. Click Sign-In and Security > Account Security.
Step 3. Click Turn Off Two-Factor Authentication.
Answer a security question you’ve set up previously to finish the process.
Part 3: Bonus Tips: How To Remove Apple ID From iPhone Without Password?
If you can’t remove your Apple ID due to forgetting your password or other reasons, using a unique app like Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) can help you recover your iOS device in minutes.
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Here are the steps to remove your Apple ID without a password on your iPhone with Dr.Fone.
Step 1. Download, install and launch Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS).
Afterward, connect your iOS device to your computer.
Step 2. Click Screen Unlock on the main program window.
On the next screen, click Remove AppleID. Enter your iPhone’s screen password and tap Trust this Computer on your iPhone.
Step 3. If done correctly, Dr.Fone will present a set of instructions for you to follow on the program window.
If the process is successful, Dr.Fone will tell you when the Apple ID has been completely unlocked. Click Done to finish.
Note: Your iPhone will be jailbroken once you bypass it using Dr.Fone.
Part 4: FAQs about Two-Factor Authentication on iPhone
Here are some frequently asked questions you should know about Apple’s 2FA.
Q1. How To Turn On Two-Factor Authentication on iPhone?
A1: If you haven’t activated 2FA for your iOS device yet, simply go to Settings > your name > Password & Security. Afterward, tap Turn On Two-Factor Authentication and follow the onscreen instructions until you finish the setup.
Q2. What iOS Features Require Two-Factor Authentication?
A2: As two-factor authentication is Apple’s extra layer of security, it’s natural for certain Apple services, such as Apple Pay and Sign in with Apple, to require 2FA. If your device supports it, turning on 2FA is highly recommended to coincide with your passcode, Face ID, or Touch ID.
Conclusion
Turning On two-factor authentication on your iOS device is advised to add an extra layer of security. Having 2FA active ensures your data is safe and away from hackers or unauthorized users. If you change your mind, Apple allows a generous two-week window to deactivate two-factor authentication. Afterward, you won’t be able to disable the feature anymore.
On the other hand, if you forget your Apple ID password, using special apps like Dr.Fone – Screen Unlock (iOS) to bypass your iOS device should do the trick.